Alastair Begg prepares listeners for a study of Daniel's apocalyptic visions by explaining the importance of systematic exposition of Scripture. He discusses the benefits of this approach, including the preacher becoming a student of the Word and the congregation learning the Bible in its natural sense. Begg also addresses the challenges of studying apocalyptic literature, which is meant to convey the indescribable and overwhelming nature of God's sovereignty. [... more]

The importance of storytelling in education is discussed by Joshua and Hannah Centers, founders of Chapter House and the Virtue and Wonder blog. They share how stories can help children develop virtue and wonder, and how parents can use reading to bond with their children and encourage meaningful conversations. [... more]

The Bible has been a cornerstone of Western culture for nearly 2,000 years, with its translation and interpretation impacting history and culture. From the King James Bible to modern versions, the Holy Bible has undergone numerous translations and revisions, shaping the English language and influencing literature, arts, and society. [... more]

The story of America's cultural and artistic independence from Europe, led by thinkers and writers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Herman Melville, and Walt Whitman, who sought to forge a distinctly American voice and identity through their works. [... more]

Maurice Sendak, a renowned children's book artist, drew inspiration from his childhood memories and experiences to create iconic picture books. His unique style and ability to tackle complex emotions in his work helped shape the genre. Sendak's life, from his early days as a sick child to his rise as a celebrated author and illustrator, is a testament to his perseverance and creativity. [... more]

William Faulkner, a renowned Southern writer, grew up in Mississippi and drew inspiration from his native soil. He revolutionized Southern literature by writing about the modern South, its healing and growth from the Civil War, and the evolution of the 20th century. Faulkner's novels, such as 'The Sound and the Fury' and 'As I Lay Dying,' are considered classics of American literature. He was a private person, but his writing challenged readers to think about the South and its contradictions. Faulkner's legacy continues to shape the literary genre of Southern literature, and his work remains a testament to the power of storytelling. [... more]

Heavenly wisdom is the ability to make decisions based on a deeper understanding of God's word, leading to a life of peace, love, and gentleness. It's a skill that can be developed over time through discipline, righteousness, discernment, and listening. In contrast, earthly wisdom is driven by selfish ambition and personal gain, leading to conflict and division. The Bible teaches that heavenly wisdom comes from Jesus Christ, who lived a life of perfect wisdom and righteousness, and that through trusting in his sacrifice, we can live out this heavenly wisdom in our daily lives. [... more]

The story of Margaret and H.A. Ray, the creators of Curious George, who fled wartime Europe and arrived in the US bringing their ideas and art. Their courage and optimism inspire a new generation of readers and artists, and their legacy lives on through the beloved character of Curious George. [... more]

John Bunyan's masterpiece, The Pilgrim's Progress, is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for centuries with its allegorical tale of Christian's journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. Written while Bunyan was in prison, the novel has become one of the most widely read and influential works of English literature, with its themes of faith, redemption, and the human condition continuing to resonate with readers today. [... more]

Washington Irving, an American original, was a literary celebrity who brought literature to the common man using plain spoken English. He created the modern American Christmas story and inadvertently gave us Halloween through the headless horseman. Irving was a huge fan of Spain and lived there, where he worked as a diplomat and ambassador, and he was known for his hustle and loyalty to his friends. [... more]

Phyllis Wheatley, a young African American slave, was brought to America in 1761 and eventually became the first published African American poet, surprising her owners with her literacy and writing skills, and later gaining recognition and freedom in England. [... more]

The story of Theodore Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, a renowned children's author who developed his unique style and voice through his love of language, rhythm, and drawing. He faced challenges and constraints in his writing, but his creativity and perseverance led to iconic books like 'The Cat in the Hat' and 'Green Eggs and Ham'. His wife, Helen, was a crucial editor and supporter, and his final book, 'Oh the Places You'll Go', was a valedictory message to his readers. [... more]

Herman Melville's life reads like his books, full of adventure, color, and penetrating genius. He's now considered America's Shakespeare, but his high esteem today is far from the reality he experienced during his lifetime. Melville's experiences in the Marquesas Islands marked him for the rest of his life as a man who had lived among the cannibals, and they also provided material for his first book, Taipei. He was rescued by an Australian whaling ship and signed on as a seaman, earning his keep working odd jobs and eventually enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Melville's 14 months on board would become the basis for his fifth book, White Jacket. He returned to New York and to his distinguished family, but his education never ceased, and he devoured every book he could get his hands on. Melville's experiences and writings would go on to shape American literature, and he would become a master of fiction, but his reputation fell into the dumpster during his lifetime, and he died almost anonymously. [... more]

Lindsay Bonilla, a Christian children's author, shares her journey of writing for kids, the importance of storytelling, and her experiences as a writer, highlighting the themes of self-acceptance, kindness, and the power of faith in her stories. [... more]

George Mueller's life is a testament to the faithfulness of God, demonstrating that He will not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly. Mueller's ministry, which included orphanages and the distribution of biblical resources, was a visual aid to the world of God's faithfulness, showing that even in the midst of challenges, God is creating divine art with every life. [... more]

The Bible's use of literary forms, such as personification and historical narrative, can be challenging to interpret. Understanding the characteristics of these forms, including the use of prose style, genealogies, and references to real time and space, is crucial for accurately interpreting scripture. The historical dimension of the Bible is at the center of controversy, with some arguing that it is not tied to history. However, recognizing the normal characteristics of historical narrative, such as references to real events, people, and places, is essential for understanding the Bible's redemptive history. [... more]

Jesus' genealogy is a critically important record that validates his rightful claim to the throne of King David, demonstrating the providence of God in his life and illustrating the principles of grace. This genealogy also highlights the mixed bloodline of the royal lineage, showing that Jesus came to save sinners, including those with questionable pasts, and offers salvation to all people, regardless of their background or heritage. [... more]

The Bible is a rich and complex book that communicates God's love and creativity through various genres, styles, and historical settings. Understanding the history and culture surrounding the Bible, as well as its different genres, can deepen one's appreciation and knowledge of God's Word. From genealogies to apocalyptic texts, every part of the Bible has a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of God's story. [... more]

Solomon's writings in Ecclesiastes illustrate the importance of common sense and the dangers of folly, emphasizing that a person's heart perspective and direction in life are crucial in determining their path, and that God's wisdom is the key to making wise decisions and avoiding the pitfalls of foolishness. [... more]

The English language is filled with curious and intriguing phrases, some of which have origins dating back centuries. From nautical expressions to industrial-era terminology, Andrew Thompson explores the fascinating history behind phrases like 'apple of your eye' and 'at full blast'. [... more]